If you’ve been to the National Arboretum in the last few months, you may have noticed some major construction projects underway. A new, taller ornamental perimeter fence is replacing the existing one that encompasses the majority of the Arboretum. In addition to improving security, the new fence will also keep out deer, therefore reducing damage to valuable plant germplasm and collections. The project costs about $4.45 million, and was made possible by Congressional funding increases to the Arboretum’s base funds in 2018. Although the project has been in process for many years, construction began this spring and is expected to finish in June 2024.